The core of MADI's work is building the capacity of grass roots organizations to effectively and efficiently operate programs for people living in distressed communities. WORKSHOPS Sponsoring training workshops for organizational leaders and employees.   The workshops will deal with relevant issues like managing finances, strategies for effective collaboration, and training for more effective operations, outreach, and community leadership. TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES Facilitating attendance at national conferences and other training opportunities. We will look for scholarships for attending conferences and special training sessions. The focus of these scholarships is leadership development and improving management and community outreach skills. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Providing technical assistance through state, local and national consultants. We will provide technical assistance that is more individualized than possible in workshops and seminars. The technical assistance is aimed at meeting the strategic, administrative, management, planning and program development needs of grassroots organizations. RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT Organizing site visits to model social programs nationwide. On occasion, it is beneficial for local leaders to visit other "model" programs being operated by organizations elsewhere in the country, especially those funded by our national and local funders. We will help facilitate those visits when appropriate funds are available. DATA & RESEARCH Providing data and research on models and best practices. The services being provided by grassroots organizations are commonly provided by nonprofit organizations, public agencies and churches. The initiative will provide up-to-date information related to similar programs that have been evaluated and proven successful. TECHNOLOGY Enhancing the organization's use of technology for outreach and networking. We will work to strengthen the technological capacity of your organization. This includes locating computers and software, if needed, and linking the organizations where possible for more effective program coordination and information sharing. Note: This site and contents are under construction and subject to frequent change. 6-2-05 Copyright © 2004 Making A Difference Inc. All rights reserved.